Road accidents are a common incidence, but during monsoon, the chances of an accident become higher owing to waterlogging, slippery roads, & poor visibility. It has also been observed that every year,during the annual rainy season, there are higher chances of vehicles getting damaged which results in higher motor claims ratio.
Waterlogging due to monsoon has become a regular scenario in major cities of Indian roads. Everyone wants to get out of the waterlogged area and reach their destinations safely yet timely. But, driving in such a scenario is challenging for the vehicle as well for your safety. That’s why, in a nutshell, driving through water should always be avoided, but If you absolutely must drive over a water-logged road safely, follow the below mentioned tips that will help you to drive your car through waterlogged roads as smoothly as possible.
Tips To Drive Through Waterlogged Roads:-
Driving your car through waterlogged roads in India can be a daunting task. IFFCO-Tokio Shares top tips for a safe & smooth drive.
First and foremost, ‘Gauge Water Level’, as it gets more dangerous when the car’s tyres are submerged. Higher water levels can make driving a lot difficult & prone to problems.
If water is upto the tyre level, then drive down the center:Stay In The Centre Lane & Drive through the middle of the road. The depth at the center is generally the least as compared to sides. take turns with other cars, asdriving behind other drivers is safer than passing by and splashing water onto passing vehicles. It will also move water out of your way.Also, you should clear the windshield with the help of the HVAC system – heating, ventilating, and AC (Air Conditioning) for better visibility on roads.Don’t forget to turn headlights/ hazard lights on, as it will help you see the road better, also alerts other cars around you, helps you guess how deep the water-logged roads are.
If water level rise above tyre, simply don’t drive further & just try to park the vehicle at a safe spot. Once you park it safely, get out of the vehicle and call the insurer or towing service to tow your car, if required. The roadside assistance car insurance policy aid to tow your vehicle to the nearest garage available. If the car stops for any reason, one should not try to start it, restart the engine if stalled in water, as it could cause serious engine damage. If you suspect water has entered the engine, immediately switch off the car to avoid any damage. Remember, any engine damage caused by wear and tear or mechanical failure will not be covered as part of an insurance claim. To avoid such scenarios or any dispute with the insurer, opt for an ‘engine protection add-on’ that covers all kinds of damages to the engine, including hydrostatic lock, upholstery damage.
In a case where a person’s car has been submerged in water due to the monsoon showers, having a motor insurance and putting in an insurance claim are crucial steps.Monsoons pose abundant challenges for drivers/vehicle owners and hence a comprehensive insurance policy is recommended.
Remember, a little preparation and presence of mind can get anyone out of a problematic situation without harming them or their vehicle. Drive slow, do composed driving, do not move to high gears. Keep toggling between 1st & 2nd gear without letting the throttle go down. Maintain a consistent level of RPM (speed). Try to take an alternate route, which might be time-consuming but it is better to be safe than sorry.
So, Keep Calm, Don’t Panic & Be Patient, Stay Insured.
And, if you are looking for a bike/car insurance plan that offers protection for your vehicle as well as light on your wallet? Look no further than IFFCO-Tokio General Insurance Co. Ltd. You can choose from several add-on options, tailor your plan as per your requirements at a cost that’s in tune with your budget.
